Age should not be a barrier to people to work
IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people believe that people should be allowed to work only till a set retirement age. Others say that if people want to work, age should not be a barrier to them.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Sample Answer 1: Age should not be a barrier to people to work
Introduction:
The debate surrounding retirement age often pits those advocating for a fixed retirement age against proponents of allowing individuals to work irrespective of age. While some argue for the necessity of retirement to open up job opportunities and ensure adequate rest for the elderly, others believe that individuals should have the freedom to work as long as they desire. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting my own stance on the matter.
Arguments for a set retirement age:
Supporters of a fixed retirement age argue that it is essential for various reasons. Firstly, it allows for the rotation of the workforce, creating opportunities for younger generations to enter the job market and advance in their careers. Additionally, older individuals may experience declining health or reduced productivity, making it necessary for them to step down from their roles to maintain efficiency in the workplace. Moreover, retirement provides seniors with the opportunity to enjoy their golden years without the stress and demands of a full-time job, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
Arguments against a set retirement age:
On the other hand, advocates for allowing individuals to work regardless of age emphasize the importance of autonomy and personal choice. Many seniors today are healthier, more active, and eager to continue contributing to society through their work. Forcing them into retirement based solely on age can lead to feelings of purposelessness and economic insecurity. Moreover, with advancements in healthcare and technology, older individuals can often perform their jobs as effectively as their younger counterparts, challenging the notion that age should be a barrier to employment.
My opinion:
In my view, while setting a retirement age may have its benefits in terms of workforce management and ensuring adequate rest for older individuals, it should not be an absolute restriction. Instead, policies should be flexible enough to accommodate individuals who wish to continue working beyond the traditional retirement age, provided they are physically and mentally capable of doing so. This approach not only promotes inclusivity and diversity in the workforce but also respects individuals’ autonomy and contributions regardless of their age.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the debate over whether people should be allowed to work only till a set retirement age or if age should not be a barrier to employment is multifaceted. While both perspectives have valid points, a balanced approach that considers individual choice, societal needs, and workforce dynamics is essential. Ultimately, policies should aim to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their careers while ensuring the efficient functioning of the labor market.
Sample Answer 2: Age should not be a barrier to people to work
In contemporary society, the issue of whether individuals should be constrained by a set retirement age or allowed to work irrespective of their age is a matter of ongoing debate. While some argue for the necessity of a fixed retirement age, others advocate for the removal of age barriers in the workforce. Both viewpoints have their merits, and the optimal approach may lie in a combination of both perspectives, considering individual circumstances.
Advocates for a set retirement age argue that it ensures opportunities for younger generations to enter the workforce, preventing a bottleneck in employment. Additionally, they contend that older individuals may face difficulties in keeping up with the pace of technological advancements and may impede progress in their respective fields. Moreover, retirement at a certain age allows individuals to enjoy their later years without the pressures of work, promoting a healthier work-life balance and providing opportunities for leisure activities and spending time with family.
On the other hand, proponents of allowing people to work regardless of age emphasize the importance of experience and wisdom that older individuals bring to the table. Many older workers possess invaluable knowledge and skills acquired over decades of experience, which can greatly benefit businesses and organizations. Moreover, in an era of increasing life expectancy and improved healthcare, many individuals are willing and able to continue working past traditional retirement ages, either out of financial necessity or personal fulfillment.
In my opinion, while a fixed retirement age may be appropriate for certain professions or industries where physical demands or cognitive abilities are crucial, it is important to recognize that age alone should not be a determinant of one’s ability to work. Instead, a flexible approach that considers individual capabilities, health, and preferences would be more equitable and effective. For instance, offering options such as reduced hours, flexible schedules, or transitioning into mentoring roles can accommodate older workers while also providing opportunities for younger generations to enter the workforce.
In conclusion, the debate over whether people should be allowed to work only until a set retirement age or if age should not be a barrier to work is complex and multifaceted. While both viewpoints have valid arguments, a balanced approach that acknowledges individual circumstances and abilities would likely yield the most favorable outcomes for both individuals and society as a whole.